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The Presidency has described SABC 2's Morning Live presenter Vuyo Mbuli as a patriotic person and an asset not only to the SABC but to the nation as a whole. Mbuli died in a Bloemfontein hospital after collapsing while watching a ruby match on Saturday night.

Presidential spokesperson, Mac Maharaj says: "It is hard to think of a more patriotic positive person than Vuyo said President Zuma. He was always cheerful and the whole nation will miss his smile and encouraging words. I wish to express on behalf of government and the entire South African population our words of condolences to the Mbuli family, friends and the SABC. Your loss is the nation's loss, may his soul rest in peace".

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has also paid tribute to Mbuli. His last outside broadcast was during the Tourism Conference in Durban two weeks ago. Premier Zweli Mkhize says Mbuli added value in the broadcast industry.

IFP leader iNkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi has described Mbuli as a person who always acted in a professional manner. Buthelezi says Mbuli's death is a loss not only to the Mbuli family and the SABC but also the nation.

"He was someone that the whole nation respected for the very high standard in his work as a journalist , so I would like to send my deepest condolences and that of the IFP to the Mbuli family and the whole SABC".

President Jacob Zuma, political parties and the broadcasting community expressed shock and sadness at the death of Vuyo Mbuli.

Zuma praised Mbuli's contribution and said his death was a loss to the nation. "It is hard to think of a more patriotic and positive person than Vuyo," Zuma said in a statement. "He was always cheerful and the whole nation will miss his smile and encouraging words. "I wish to express, on behalf of government and the entire South African population, our words of condolence to the Mbuli family, friends and the SA Broadcasting Corporation."

Recreation Minister Fikile Mbalula described Mbuli in a statement as a giant of the broadcasting industry. On behalf of the sporting community, Mbalula extended condolence's to Mbuli's family. "A true sportsman at heart, is gone. You ran your race, we appreciate your time in this lifetime. Rest in peace my dear brother, my friend."

Spokesperson for the ANCYL in Limpopo, Klaas Mabunda, said in a statement: "His provenance for the use of all languages found in our country to greet Morning Live guests and viewers was an indication of togetherness and acknowledgement of the diverse realities of our country."

Democratic Alliance spokesperson Mmusi Maimane said working with Mbuli was always a pleasure: "Vuyo was always fair - always asking the questions in a way that gave you a chance to state your side. He personified what it meant to be a warm, engaging and tolerant South African. On behalf of the DA, I extend our sincerest and most heartfelt condolences to his friends, family and colleagues at the SABC."

The Congress of the People echoes these sentiments. Spokesperson Dennis Bloem described Mbuli as "a zealous newshoundwho stood for the truth in public interest and remained fiercely objective at all times. Mbuli had served the South African public through his work as a probing reporter, who was never afraid to ask difficult questions."

The Azanian People's Organisation said Mbuli would be sorely missed, particularly in the run up to the 2014 national generalelections. Spokesman Funani ka Ntontela described Mbuli as a "shining, vibrant, seasoned and most celebrated talk show host". The party also praised Mbuli's multilingualism, saying this skill gave him the ability to make a broad spectrum of guests on his talkshows feel at ease.

As we remember him, it is one of his favourite phrases that today rings true - 'mintiro ya bula bula' - your work speaks for

The Young Communist League of SA expressed its shock and sadness at Mbuli's death. "We are saddened by the news that renowned Morning Live anchor Vuyo Mbuli has passed away. We will miss his friendliness, fairness and being a very professional presenter," spokesperson Khaya Xaba said. "We send our deepest condolences to his family, his colleagues at the SABC, and all the viewers of Morning Live," said Xaba.

ANC spokesperson Jackson Mthembu described Mbuli as "an outspoken linguist who took pride in celebrating the diversity of South Africa and its people". He said: "For decades, Vuyo Mbuli has been a constant presence in South African homes, tackling various issues of national importance with wit, charm, respect and an all-embracing and inclusive manner. The ANC also praised Mbuli's tireless efforts in promoting dialogue on various issues of relevance to South Africa's national discourse.

"As we remember him, it is one of his favourite phrases that today rings true -- 'mintiro ya bula bula' - your work speaks foryou." The party extended its condolences to Mbuli's family, friends and colleagues.

"In this, the last time, his signature sign off - Sharp Sharp - came too soon and he will be sadly missed", Mthembu said.

Mbuli started his radio career on SAfm in 1995 when he teamed up with veteran broadcaster Paddy O'Byrne. He has been with Morning Live on SABC 2 since its inception on 1 November 1999. He made his television debut in 1993 for SABC 3 as a Continuity Presenter and worked his way up to Sports Presenting and as a News Anchor.

Over the past 13 years of Morning Live, Mbuli has interviewed a wide range of local and international celebrities, politiciansand sports personalities. Additional reporting by Sapa

Click below to listen to Presidential spokesperson, Mac Maharaj's reaction to Mbuli's death